Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to honour the incredible role that mothers play in our lives, and to focus upon the importance of health and wellness amongst the wondrous stages of motherhood.
When preparing for motherhood, you may be drawn to adopt a new healthier diet and lifestyle or will simply uphold your established wellness routine. However, as you progress and enter the next phase, it is important to recognise and embrace maternal nutrition, ensuring you are supporting the growth and development of the baby, as specific nutrients are required for the additional demands on your body.
During pregnancy, there are several dietary elements to consider adopting. These include opting for small, frequent meals (five – six) each day, selecting rich, Omega 3, fatty acids (such as plant and sea derived options), and additional protein to stabilise blood glucose levels, neurotransmitters, and hormones. You can also improve mineral absorption by utilising key food preparation techniques such as soaking, sprouting, souring, and fermenting all grains, seeds, legumes, and nuts. It is also beneficial to continue combining vitamin C-rich foods into each meal, to increase the absorption of iron.
Consider a naturopath consultation pre-pregnancy, during your pregnancy journey or post-partum at Gaia Retreat & Spa. We offer non-invasive techniques to establish one’s overall health, along with detoxification protocols prior to conceiving.
There is also a wide range of herbal medicine and nutraceuticals that can be used during pregnancy, labour and post-partum for optimal health and wellbeing for the mother and baby.
During the postpartum period, a well-balanced nutrient rich diet plays a key role in supporting maternal recovery and breast milk production. Vitamin C and Zinc are key nutrient co-factors for collagen and tissue repair, along with specific amino acids. Herbs such as Fenugreek and St. Mary’s Thistle can support milk production, along with adequate cellular hydration – consider adding 1/8 coconut water to 7/8 spring or filtered water to increase natural electrolytes. With this, a daily intake of two litres of pure water is recommended, with an additional 500ml during breastfeeding. Add another cup of water to your day if you are also consuming diuretic teas (or herbal teas).
Post-partum can be challenging with hormonal fluctuations, increased stress, and anticipated fatigue due to poor sleep. Try drinking a Chamomile tea, along with passionflower and vervain (verbena) to ease the sleep disturbance. You should also consider listening to a Yoga Nidra during the day if you have had minimal sleep the night before, as a 45-minute Yoga Nidra is equivalent to four-hours of deep restorative sleep. Find a voice that resonates with you and take this time to recharge your batteries.
Celebrate the amazing mothers of the world this Mother’s Day with all that they bring to our lives…
Much love
Tracy, Gaia Naturopathy & Nutrition Team
